M. Field. At the start of the study, Slason Thompson provides an introduction that highlights Eugene Field's desire for a memoir that reflects his whimsical personality rather than a chronological recount of his life events. The author illustrates how Eugene, in his playful and unconventional fashion, encouraged a focus on the fantastical and humorous aspects of life, both in his personal interactions and literary creations. The opening section sets the stage for a deeper exploration of Field’s family lineage, describing his upbringing in a New England Puritan household, and hinting at the contradictions within his character that emerged from his experiences and relationships, particularly with his father, a prominent lawyer. (This is an automatically generated summary.)